River of Flowers to return in 2014

On the third anniversary of the 22 February earthquake Cantabrians will once again have the opportunity to share their experiences and hopes for the future as part of the River of Flowers commemoration.

Michelle Whitaker, from Healthy Christchurch, says the River of Flowers provides a great opportunity for people to connect with each other and share their experiences and hopes for the future.

“A unique feature of the River of Flowers is that it is driven by each local community. Community groups have agreed to host 12 sites, and we’re expecting a few more groups to come on board,” Ms Whitaker says.

On Saturday 22nd February 2014 Cantabrians will be able to throw flowers at various sites along the Avon, Heathcote and Liffey rivers, and at the estuary. Sites will be open from 8am to 8pm, and hosted by community groups between 12.30-1.30pm. Two minutes silence will be held at 12:51pm.
Evan Smith from the Avon-Otakaro Network (AvON) says the River of Flowers has struck a chord with Cantabrians.

“Over the last two years thousands have taken part to reflect, connect, and look to the future. With the third anniversary falling on a Saturday we anticipate even higher levels of participation as more people come together to celebrate our strength,” Mr Smith says.

In addition to the 12 confirmed community hosted events, there will be an opportunity for those who attend the Civic Memorial Service at the Botanical Gardens to participate at the River of Flowers site on the Avon River at the conclusion of the service.

The following sites have so far been confirmed:

Site
Host
Beckenham Park
Beckenham Residents Association
Burwood Memorial Mini Park
Burwood Christian Centre

Kerrs Reach
Avon Otakaro Network
Estuary Yacht Club Car Park

Christchurch Yacht Club
Owles Terrace Reserve
River of Life and Renew Brighton
Heathcote River (opposite The Princess Margaret Hospital)

Canterbury District Health Board
Lincoln Township (River Liffey)
Lincoln and Districts Community Care Association Inc.
Medway Street Foot Bridge

Avon Otakaro Network
O-Tautahi - The Bricks

Avon Loop Planning Association
South New Brighton Domain (Boatramp)

South Brighton Resident Association
Wainoni Methodist Church

Wainoni/Avonside Community Services Trust
Woolston Radley Park

Woolston Community Centre

As the number of sites may increase it is recommended that people go to www.healthychristchurch.org.nz for an up-to-date list.

People are asked to bring their own flowers and notes to tie onto the Trees of Hope.
ENDS

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